Ukraine has endured one of its darkest days after two ballistic missiles killed more than 40 people and injured around 200, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
The missiles hit a school and a nearby hospital in a central Ukrainian region and Zelensky vowed that “Russian scum will pay for this” following the devastating attack.
The strike took place in the Poltava region, the president said in a video posted on his Telegram channel.
It appeared to be one of the deadliest attacks carried out by Russian forces since the war began more than 900 days ago on February 24, 2022.
There are fears that the attack was aided by local informants and Zelensky ordered an immediate investigation.
Two Russian ballistic missiles hit a school and a nearby hospital in a central Ukrainian region
More than 40 people were killed and around 200 injured in the attack.
The attack targeted the 128th Brigade, with one missile hitting the parade ground and another the mess hall, leaving a scene of devastation.
“Russian scum will definitely be held accountable for this attack,” Zelensky said.
‘One of the buildings of the Institute of Communications was partially destroyed.
‘People found themselves under the rubble. Many were saved.
‘More than 180 people were injured.
“Unfortunately, many people died. So far, 41 people are known to have died,” he said.
Russian channels claimed the number of victims was significantly higher.
In Poltava, several people were trapped under rubble during the attack on the Institute of Communications, which also hit a nearby hospital.
The attack with Russian Iskander missiles occurred during a training session at military unit A3990, according to reports.
The victims are likely to include Ukrainian radar and electronic warfare specialists.
The attack targeted the 128th Brigade, with one missile hitting the parade ground and another the dining hall, leaving a scene of devastation.
Bodies were seen strewn across the crash site as shocked survivors tended to their wounds.
Local sources reported an urgent appeal for blood donors, indicating a high number of casualties in one of the most devastating attacks of the war.
Zelensky ordered a full investigation into the incident.
Zelensky also paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the attack.
“My deepest condolences to all the family and friends,” he said.
‘I have ordered a full and prompt investigation into all the circumstances surrounding what happened.
‘All necessary services are involved in the rescue operation.
‘I am grateful to all those who, from the first minutes after being hit, help people and save lives.’
He reiterated his call for the West – including Britain and the United States – to allow him to use long-range missiles to attack military targets inside Russia.
‘We have been telling everyone over and over again who has the power to stop this terror.
‘Air defense systems and missiles are needed in Ukraine, not in a warehouse somewhere.
‘Long-range strikes that can defend against Russian terrorism are needed now, not later.
‘Unfortunately, every day of delay is a day of lost lives.
‘Eternal memory to all those whose lives have been taken by Russia.’
Russian Telegram channels gleefully claimed the death toll could be more than 70.
One channel said: ‘Simply good work by intelligence and the crew of the Islander.
“He deserves medals,” said another.